Lamar Odom was a basketball prodigy, combining point guard skills with a 6’10” frame, making him one of the most versatile players of his time. His ability to handle the ball, see the court, and score from anywhere made him a crucial part of the Los Angeles Lakers’ championship runs in 2009 and 2010. Odom's talent was further recognized when he snagged the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2011.
Despite his successes on the court, Odom's career is often viewed through the lens of unfulfilled potential. He never earned an All-Star nod or an All-NBA selection, and his struggles off the court are well-known. Odom faced significant personal challenges, including battles with drug addiction.
In a candid conversation on the Cousins podcast with Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, Odom opened up about his offseason lifestyle. He admitted to partying during the summer, steering clear of drugs during the season to avoid suspensions:
“Nah. Summertime I did though.
I ain’t gonna front. You get drug tested like four times [in-season].
If you get caught for sniffing cocaine, that suspension is gonna be crazy. I had some great cocaine summers though…That was my way of beating the system.
Just partying hard during the summer time.”
Reflecting on whether his offseason choices affected his career, Odom believes they did:
“Hell yea. 100% I should be where ya’ll at in the Hall of Fame.
I had people coming to me before I got to the NBA saying ‘yo you a hall of famer’…Let’s keep it real with you, I shot a reality show in-season, that means I was playing in the game, winning 6th man of the year and shooting a reality show. I knew I had the grit and the makeup especially if you put me on the spot I’m gonna get it done but I think about overall legacy and greatness, yea I hurt that by using drugs but I’m gonna stand on that.
I think about my life and the ups and the downs, I probably been put here to do something more than just play basketball.”
Odom’s talent was undeniable, and the Lakers’ championship success was, in part, due to his contributions. He had the potential to be a perennial All-Star and a Hall of Famer.
However, the distinction between great players and Hall of Famers often lies beyond talent alone. It involves mindset, work ethic, and dedication.
Odom himself acknowledges that his purpose might extend beyond basketball. By sharing his journey and struggles, he has the potential to inspire and support others facing similar battles-an impact that transcends any accolade.
In other Lakers news, the team is looking to uncover talent akin to Odom's in the draft. To this end, they have appointed Tony Bennett as an NBA Draft advisor to general manager Rob Pelinka. His role with the team has been clearly defined, aiming to bolster the Lakers' pursuit of top-tier talent.